Telegraph Sport analyses who the winners and losers were in the individual
battles at Old Trafford

1. Moyes v Wenger If this was a big test of Arsène Wenger’s title hopes, it was also a seminal fixture for David Moyes. Manchester United had fallen short against the big teams so far this season, but Moyes got his tactics and selection spot-on, capitalising on Arsenal’s lack of height, and the victory was a reward for his approach to the game.

2. Rooney v Vermaelen In reality, it was no contest. Vermaelen’s lack of regular match action showed, with Rooney dragging the Belgian all over the pitch and losing him time and again. Vermaelen was once Arsenal’s best defender, but he looked shorn of confidence in this game.

3. Valencia v Gibbs Kieran Gibbs’s progress this season has been a key factor in Arsenal’s rise to the top of the table, but he came up against a fierce competitor in Valencia.

The Ecuadorean winger kept Gibbs pressed back with his powerful attacking and the United man came out on top.

4. Vidic v Giroud Giroud’s form this season had made him a genuine threat to United’s back four, which has had some unconvincing moments recently, but Vidic handled the forward magnificently. The United captain’s half-time departure following a collision with David de Gea opened the door for Giroud to take advantage, but he was unable to do so.

5. Carrick v Ramsey This was a battle between the star of the season so far and the campaign’s unsung performer. The latter — Carrick — was the winner. Whether Ramsey was suffering from a busy week or not, Carrick’s use of the ball and defensive discipline were outstanding.